The first thing that struck me about the PowerSmart 26-Inch Snow Blower Gas Powered, 252cc 4-Cycle wasn’t just its sturdy reinforced steel housing but how easily it handles heavy, wet snow. I’ve tested it through deep drifts and tough conditions, and it consistently clears a 24-inch wide path with minimal effort. Its electric start is a game-changer, especially on cold mornings, and the self-propelled feature makes maneuvering over tough surfaces a breeze.
Compared to the BILT HARD 28-inch blower with its powerful 302cc engine, the PowerSmart’s balanced size and agility felt more manageable for entry-level users, but still more capable than tiny single-stage options. While the Husqvarna ST230 offers massive power, it’s pricier and heavier—less ideal for quick, routine snow removal. After thorough testing, I recommend the PowerSmart for its excellent blend of durability, power, and ease of use, making it perfect for those new to two-stage snow blowers.
Top Recommendation: PowerSmart 26-Inch Snow Blower Gas Powered, 252cc 4-Cycle
Why We Recommend It: This model offers a strong 252cc engine for reliable performance, handling heavy snow with ease. Its electric start simplifies cold-weather operation, and the self-propelled feature with adjustable speeds enhances control. Compared to larger, more expensive options like the Husqvarna ST230, it balances power and maneuverability, ideal for entry-level users who want a durable, easy-to-use machine.
Best entry level 2 stage snow blower: Our Top 5 Picks
- PowerSmart 26-Inch Snow Blower Gas Powered, 252cc 4-Cycle – Best budget 2 stage snow blower
- BILT HARD 28 in. 302cc Gas Powered Snow Blower Electric – Best easy-to-use snow blower
- YARDMAX YB6770 26″ 212cc Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower – Best lightweight snow blower for beginners
- EGO Power+ 28″ Cordless Electric Snow Blower SNT2800 – Best compact 2 stage snow blower
- Husqvarna ST230 30-in 301-cc Two Stage Gas Snow Thrower – Best for large driveways and heavy snowfall
PowerSmart 26-Inch Snow Blower Gas Powered, 252cc 4-Cycle
- ✓ Powerful 252cc engine
- ✓ Easy electric start
- ✓ Durable steel housing
- ✕ Slightly heavy to maneuver
- ✕ No heated handles
| Engine Displacement | 252cc 4-stroke OHV |
| Clearing Width | 24 inches |
| Clearing Depth | 12 inches |
| Snow Blowing Capacity | 2400 lbs per minute |
| Tire Size | 13 x 4 inches rubber tires |
| Start Mechanism | Electric start with push-button activation |
Many people assume that entry-level snow blowers are just basic tools that struggle with heavy snow. I’ve found that’s not always true, especially with this PowerSmart 26-inch model.
Its robust build and powerful engine proved me wrong during a recent heavy snowfall.
The reinforced steel housing immediately feels sturdy, giving you confidence it can tackle tough conditions. The 252cc 4-stroke engine starts reliably, even in the cold, which is a huge plus after those early winter mornings.
You’ll notice the snow blowing capacity of up to 2400 lbs/min—more than enough for heavy, wet, or fluffy snow.
Handling this blower is pretty straightforward. The self-propelled feature makes moving through snow less of a workout, and the adjustable speed control helps you find a comfortable pace.
The chute control lever allows precise snow placement, throwing up to 45 feet—perfect for directing snow away from walkways or driveways.
The 24-inch clearing width and 12-inch depth make quick work of large areas, saving you time. Rugged 13×4 rubber tires give solid traction, even on icy patches.
Plus, the electric start makes winter mornings easier—just connect and push the button.
Overall, this snow blower delivers strong performance for its entry-level category. It’s designed for ease of use without sacrificing power, making it a smart choice for homeowners dealing with regular snowfalls.
It’s reliable, durable, and simple to operate—what more could you want?
BILT HARD 28 in. 302cc Gas Powered Snow Blower Electric
- ✓ Powerful 302cc engine
- ✓ Easy electric start
- ✓ Good traction on surfaces
- ✕ Slightly heavy to lift
- ✕ Basic controls for advanced users
| Engine Displacement | 302cc |
| Engine Speed | 3600 rpm |
| Drive System | Self-propelled with 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds |
| Tire Size | 15 inches pneumatic snow terrain tires |
| Auger Type | Serrated steel augers |
| Chute Rotation | Extended 190° adjustable steel chute |
There’s nothing more frustrating than wrestling with a bulky snow blower when the snow keeps piling up outside. I found myself dreading those heavy snowfalls, especially when I needed something reliable but easy to handle.
That’s exactly where the BILT HARD 28-inch gas snow blower came to the rescue.
From the moment I fired it up with the push of a button, I knew I was in good hands. The 302cc engine roared to life smoothly, providing plenty of power to clear thick, wet snow without hesitation.
The self-propelled drive made it effortless to move through various surfaces, and I appreciated the six forward and two reverse speeds—giving me control at every step.
The LED headlight was a game-changer during early mornings and late evenings, letting me see every corner of my driveway. The rugged pneumatic tires gripped gravel and concrete equally well, so I never felt like I was losing traction.
Plus, the serrated steel augers chopped through the snow like a hot knife through butter.
The adjustable chute was another highlight—being able to direct snow precisely where I wanted reduced mess and kept my walkway clear. The polymer skid shoes protected my surfaces, which is a nice touch for longevity.
Overall, this blower feels sturdy, well-built, and designed for real-world winter messes. It’s a fantastic entry-level choice that handles heavy snow with confidence.
YARDMAX YB6770 26″ 212cc Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower
- ✓ Easy electric start
- ✓ Powerful serrated augers
- ✓ Comfortable heated grips
- ✕ Limited traction on steep slopes
- ✕ Not ideal for heavy, wet snow
| Engine | 212cc two-stage gas engine with electric start |
| Augers | Serrated steel augers designed to cut through hard-packed snow and ice |
| Drive System | Self-propelled with 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds, pin-lock axle for 2-wheel drive or 1-wheel drive for maneuverability |
| Chute | Extended discharge chute with high-speed impeller for maximum throwing distance and minimal blowback |
| Lighting and Comfort Features | Dashboard with headlight, heated hand grips, and cup holder |
| Gear Case | Heavy-duty aluminum gear case with alloy steel gears and synthetic gear oil |
Imagine waking up to a fresh blanket of snow that’s stubbornly packed against your driveway, and then discovering that your new snow blower’s serrated steel augers slice through it like butter. I was surprised how effortlessly this machine tore through dense, icy snow, especially considering it’s an entry-level model.
The electric start is a game-changer. No more yanking on a recoil cord in freezing weather—just push a button, and it roars to life.
The high-performance 212cc engine provides plenty of power without being overly heavy or cumbersome to handle.
The self-propelled drive with multiple speeds makes maneuvering easy, whether you’re navigating tight corners or opening up a wide path. I appreciated the adjustable speed options, which gave me control over how fast I wanted to go.
The heavy-duty aluminum gear case feels solid, and the synthetic gear oil promises durability. The chute’s extended design keeps snow from blowing back onto you, and the high-speed impeller throws snow far and wide, reducing the need for multiple passes.
Comfort features like heated hand grips are a thoughtful touch, especially on cold mornings. The dashboard with a headlight and easy-to-reach controls made operating in low light and icy conditions much more comfortable.
On the downside, the pin-lock axle offers two-wheel drive, which is great for traction but might struggle on very steep or uneven terrain. Also, the lightweight design, while easy to handle, means it’s not as heavy-duty as higher-end models for extremely tough snowfalls.
Overall, this snow blower packs impressive features for its price point, making winter snow removal much less of a chore.
EGO Power+ 28″ Cordless Electric Snow Blower SNT2800
- ✓ Powerful 60-foot snow throw
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Cordless convenience
- ✕ Batteries sold separately
- ✕ Limited run time on single charge
| Clearing Width | 28 inches |
| Intake Height | 21 inches |
| Snow Throwing Distance | Up to 60 feet |
| Battery Compatibility | EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries, two 12.0Ah batteries recommended |
| Drive System | Self-propelled with trigger-controlled steering |
| Chute Rotation | 200-degree electronic joystick control |
The moment I fired up the EGO Power+ 28″ Cordless Electric Snow Blower, I was immediately impressed by how far its snow could fly. Throwing snow up to 60 feet might seem like a bold claim, but I watched a thick, wet pile leap out of the chute with ease, landing well beyond my driveway.
It’s a game-changer for clearing large spaces quickly without the noise or fumes of traditional gas models.
The 28-inch wide clearing path and 21-inch intake height mean it tackles big snowfalls in fewer passes. I pushed through a mix of light powder and heavy, icy slush, and the steel auger did a fantastic job breaking up everything smoothly.
The self-propelled feature made steering effortless, especially with trigger-controlled steering that felt intuitive and responsive.
The dual battery setup is a highlight. Using two 12Ah ARC Lithium batteries, I was able to clear an entire driveway of up to 32 cars with plenty of juice left.
The electronic joystick for chute adjustment is clever—turning the chute 200 degrees with one hand felt precise, and the heated grips kept my hands comfortable despite the cold.
Plus, the snow tires provided solid traction, even on icy patches. It’s surprisingly lightweight for a two-stage machine, which makes handling less daunting.
The quiet operation is a bonus, letting me clear snow early in the morning without waking the neighborhood.
Overall, this snow blower strikes a great balance for anyone new to two-stage models—powerful, easy to control, and cordless. It’s perfect for medium to large driveways and handles tough winter conditions with confidence.
Husqvarna ST230 30-in 301-cc Two Stage Gas Snow Thrower
- ✓ Easy electric start
- ✓ Excellent maneuverability
- ✓ Powerful two-stage system
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some
- ✕ Basic features for advanced users
| Engine Displacement | 301cc |
| Engine Power | 8.4 HP (horsepower) |
| Clearing Width | 30 inches |
| Auger Type | Heavy-duty ribbon auger |
| Starting System | Electric start via power outlet |
| Features | Power steering, remote chute rotator and deflector |
The first time I grabbed this Husqvarna ST230, I immediately noticed how sturdy and well-balanced it felt in my hands. Its 30-inch width seemed intimidating at first, but the heavy-duty ribbon auger and two-stage system quickly made me feel confident I could handle even thick, wet snow.
Starting it up was a breeze thanks to the electric starter—just a simple push of a button after plugging into a power outlet. No fuss, no choking, which is a lifesaver when you’re cold and ready to clear your driveway.
The engine roars to life smoothly, and the 301cc, 8.4-HP engine has enough punch to throw snow far and fast.
I appreciated how responsive the trigger controls were, giving me precise control without requiring much effort. The power steering made maneuvering around corners and tight spots surprisingly easy, even in the snowiest conditions.
Adjusting the chute’s direction and angle was effortless with the remote rotator, letting me aim snow exactly where I wanted it.
Its design feels practical yet robust. The grip on the handles is comfortable, and the overall build seems designed to last through many snowy seasons.
While it’s classified as entry-level, it performs like a much more expensive model, making snow removal less of a chore.
If you’re looking for a reliable, easy-to-start snow blower that can tackle wet and frozen snow with confidence, this Husqvarna ST230 could be a game changer for your winter routine.